Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce
Juicy meatballs simmered in a tangy cranberry and tomato sauce, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make meatballs using chopped meat and bread crumbs.
- Place the meatballs in a pot with 1 small can of water, spaghetti sauce, tomato juice, and cranberry sauce.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use lean ground beef or turkey for the meatballs; this keeps them juicy without excess fat. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or even oatmeal can serve as a substitute. Consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture for extra flavor. If you prefer a tangier sauce, a splash of vinegar can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over cooked pasta or rice for a hearty meal. A side of garlic bread complements the dish nicely, while a fresh salad, such as Karis' Kranberry Salad, adds a refreshing touch. For a complete dinner, consider pairing with steamed vegetables or a light soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 1310 calories, with 43g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (87% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1929mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They can be cooked the next day or frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking to maintain texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce on hand, marinara or a homemade tomato sauce can be excellent alternatives. You can also use a jar of salsa for a unique twist that adds a bit of spice to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months; reheat them gently from frozen.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).